NOTE FROM PASTOR J R FOR SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 2021
This Sunday is the first day of August. “August” means “Great” or “To increase.” The assigned scripture this week calls for us to live up to the greatness of our calling and to increase the effectiveness of our faith walk in fellowship with Christ and others.
The Apostle Paul says in Ephesians 4:1 “… I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.” The word “live” can actually be translated “walk.” “Walk” is frequently used in the New Testament to refer to daily conduct, day-by-day living. So “living a life worthy of your calling” implies walking in a manner that reflects The One who gave us the call, God. Fortunately, Paul offers wisdom for doing this. He said, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:2-3)
When I thought about this assigned text for Sunday, I had to confess that I have been missing the mark in my reactions to the recent news that the Delta variant of the COVID has become “a pandemic of the unvaccinated.” I have been angry that this is totally avoidable if folks would just get vaccinated. I have been harsh in my words to family members and others who have not been vaccinated.
In this same chapter, Paul says in Ephesians 4:15, “But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into Him who is the head, into Christ.” I have not been speaking the truth in love. My harsh words have not persuaded anyone to get vaccinated. Perhaps, it’s because with the harshness of my words, I have not been “living worthy of my calling.” I will try taking Paul’s advice and “speak the truth, in love.”
In the meantime, join us for worship this Sunday in person, by Zoom or livestream. My sermon will be “Living Worthy of Your Calling,” based on “Ephesians 4:1-16.”
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